Art Biz with Liz: Late Night Writing Thoughts

“How do you come up with all these ideas? You must have a writer’s brain,” my housemate said. But what is a “writer’s brain?” When I asked her what she meant, she said, “you think like a writer.” The words and ideas come easily.

Eh, not always. I’m still figuring out what defines a “writer,” but I’m trying taking the first steps towards becoming one – that is, I’m dedicating more time to practicing the art of writing.

Stories can help people escape reality and construct new ideas or perspectives for when they return to it. They allow readers to explore the minds of others while also educating, immersing, and inspiring them. Writers are the ones who create that magic. I envy those who are constantly typing up a storm or furiously jotting down notes in a notebook. At the same time, I am grateful for them.

When I was a child, the people who could write well seemed like wizards in their ability to conjure new worlds, characters, and scenarios. My love of writing was a seed planted early on, one that has been cultivated over the years. With the support and opportunities available at a school like the University of Michigan, it was sure to bloom. Of course, my initial interest in writing came from a love of reading; bedtime stories encapsulate some of my fondest childhood memories, and I still enjoy reading for pleasure when I have the time. I’m thankful that my parents invited me into the world of literature and storytelling, and I’m even more thankful for the educators and authors that push me to grow in my own.

This is my third year as an Arts, Ink. blogger, and I’m both astounded and delighted by the sheer number of bloggers we have this semester. This year, I am also on the writing staff for several different organizations. In addition to my coursework – which includes a memoir-writing class –  these clubs, student magazines, and newspapers have challenged me to write more about myself, something that I’m not particularly fond of yet doing more and more of these days. While I cherish moments of sudden inspiration, I’ve learned to appreciate the ten minutes I set aside for writing each day. I’ve also enjoyed reserving time to read work written by my peers, whose words, thoughts, and ideas inspire me every day.